Saddlerock Estates is a 24 units development in the south Palm Springs area that sits on Indian tribe land lease.
Land leases are a common part of homeownership in the city of Palm Springs. Recently, tensions between homeowners at Saddlerock Estates and representatives of the Agua Caliente Tribe have escalated, drawing increased media attention. KESQ News highlighted the issue, reporting on a $100,000 renewal fee along with higher monthly payments required under the updated ground lease terms. While many homeowners view these changes as unfair, the tribe is fully within its legal rights—leaving residents of Saddlerock Estates in what they describe as a “land-lease dilemma.”
Land leases often bring uncertainty at renewal time, and the situation at Saddlerock Estates is amplifying concerns about these types of arrangements. When such leases expire, the landlord alone determines the new terms. Frustrated homeowners argue that older residents on fixed incomes may be unable to afford the steep increases, potentially forcing longtime neighbors to leave the community they have called home for years.
The recent spike in costs, combined with the overall unpredictability of ground lease terms, has left many longtime residents of Saddlerock Estates deeply concerned—losing sleep over the possibility of foreclosures, forced sales, and, ultimately, displacement. While putting their homes on the market is an option, it comes with significant challenges for both sellers and prospective buyers.
Homeowners are now forced to weigh their equity against a $100,000 signing fee. If nothing else, their difficult experience could serve as a cautionary lesson for other Palm Springs buyers considering lease-land properties. At the same time, this situation may also position Palm Springs as a potential starting point for reform in how land leases are handled from a legal standpoint.
The key takeaway: understanding the difference between land leases and what is commonly known as “fee land” is critical for every buyer before making a purchase. As always, I value our relationship and remain available to provide information, insights, or guidance to you, your friends, and your family whenever needed.